We, the Lithops, often called "living stones," are a genus of succulent plants native to the arid regions of southern Africa. Our unique survival strategy involves mimicking the appearance of the surrounding pebbles to avoid being eaten by thirsty herbivores. This very specialization means we have very particular needs that differ from typical houseplants. We require a specific, highly porous, mineral-based soil mix, extremely careful watering (especially during our summer dormancy), and abundant sunlight. Purchasing us from a knowledgeable and reputable seller is not a mere convenience; it is critical to our survival and your success as our caretaker. A reputable seller understands our biology and will ensure we are healthy, correctly identified, and properly packaged for the journey to your home.
From our perspective, a trustworthy source is one that treats us with the respect our unique biology demands. You should look for sellers who provide detailed information about our specific needs on their product pages. This includes guidance on soil composition, light requirements, and, most importantly, a seasonal watering schedule. Accurate labeling of our species and cultivars is also paramount, as misidentification can lead to improper care. Furthermore, a reputable seller will not ship us during extreme weather—neither the scorching heat of summer nor the freezing temperatures of winter—as we are highly susceptible to temperature shock. Finally, examine the seller's policies on phytosanitary certifications and their packaging methods; we should be shipped bare-root and securely nestled to prevent damage during transit.
Several types of online vendors in the United States have proven to be reliable sources for acquiring healthy specimens of our kind.
Specialist Succulent Nurseries: These are often the best option. Businesses that focus exclusively on succulents and cacti possess the deep expertise required to cultivate and care for us correctly. They frequently offer a wide variety of species and cultivated varieties, often grown from seed in their own greenhouses, which means we are acclimated to container life.
Dedicated Lithops Sellers: Some hobbyists and small-scale growers specialize almost exclusively in our genus. These enthusiasts are typically passionate experts who can provide incredibly detailed information, rare species, and invaluable growing advice. They are often found on curated marketplace platforms or through their own dedicated websites.
Reputable Plant Marketplaces: Larger online marketplaces that host individual sellers can be a good source, but caution is advised. Look for vendors with overwhelmingly positive reviews specifically for shipping succulents and Lithops. Read the feedback carefully to assess the health of the plants upon arrival and the quality of the packaging.
Before you finalize your purchase, please be prepared to receive us. Have a suitable, fast-draining potting mix ready—a blend of at least 80% inorganic material like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand is ideal. Select a pot that is deep enough for our long taproot (at least 3-4 inches deep) and has excellent drainage holes. Upon our arrival, inspect us immediately. We may appear wrinkled after our journey; this is normal. Do not water us immediately. Instead, place us in bright, indirect light and allow us to acclimate for several days to a week before potting us up. Wait another week after potting before giving a light watering to encourage new root growth. This careful transition is essential for our long-term health.
